Our friends at BMWBLOG are reporting BMW is about to replace the 335i with a more powerful 340i variant.

Our friends at BMWBLOG are reporting BMW is about to replace the 335i with a more powerful 340i variant.

BMW will introduce a facelift for the 3-Series and among the changes will be a new 340i version set to replace the 335i. The N55 engine developing 306 HP (225 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque will be removed to make room for the firm's new B58 3.0-liter motor which is estimated to deliver 320 HP (235 kW) and 450 Nm (320 lb-ft). Output will be channeled as standard to the rear axle through the familiar eight-speed automatic transmission provided by ZF while an xDrive version will also be offered, and all these changes will also be implemented in next year's facelifted 4-Series.

The report also mentions BMW doesn't have any plans to offer an M340i M Performance version while the rumored three-cylinder entry-level version won't happen. Interestingly, the facelift will also be applied on the range-topping M3 which is expected to receive fresh paints, latest iDrive and possibly an optional competition package. A plug-in hybrid version set to receive the 328e moniker will join the range while full LED headlights will be optionally available across the range.

The BMW 3-Series facelift (including M3) will allegedly hit the assembly line in July and reach dealerships a few weeks later. A public reveal is set for this spring, with the report indicating a possible New York Auto Show debut early April. The plug-in hybrid is programmed to enter production in November so most likely it will go on sale early 2016.